This time last year, Anthony Smith was busy preparing for middle school football games.

What a difference a year makes.

Kenwood coach Robert Gillard told Smith after last week's loss to Greenbrier that he was going to hand the offense to him.

"I was shocked because I'm only a freshman," Smith said after he guided the Knights to a 12-0 win against Montgomery Central on Friday. "I didn't know if I was ready but coach had faith in me and that gave me confidence."

Murphy Madison, 8, high-fives his teammates before their game against Kenwood. Madison is the starting quarterback for Montgomery Central, but tore his ACL earlier this week. Erica Brechtelsbauer/The Leaf-Chronicle

Kenwood's offense struggled much of the game, but most of that had to do with the Knights' mental errors. Kenwood had nine penalties, most of which negated big plays.

But Smith was not rattled in his first start while helping to deliver Kenwood its first win of the 2017 season.

"It feels good to get this," he said after going 3-of-11 for 64 yards. "I still have a lot of work to do. I wasn't perfect out there. I'm still learning, but to get this win means a lot."

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Kenwood's QB Anthony Smith runs the ball during the game against Montgomery Central on August 25, 2017.(Photo11: Erica Brechtelsbauer/The Leaf-Chronicle)

From the time Gillard was hired late in the spring he was impressed with Smith and hinted at the potential of starting his young quarterback during 7-on-7 tournaments last month.

"He does not get overwhelmed by anything," Gillard said. "It's really special to see such a young kid not really get nervous. He maintains an even temperament throughout."

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Donta' Mayberry runs with the ball during Kenwood's game against Montgomery Central.(Photo11: Erica Brechtelsbauer/The Leaf-Chronicle)

At 6-foot-2, 190 pounds, Smith already has a strong arm, and his early throws Friday night found their mark. But his receivers dropped three passes that hit their target.

"We're going to get better," Smith said. "We didn't look all that great (Friday) night. But coach always tells us it's a process. He's new to us and we're new to him and it takes time, but I'm going to be better and this team will be, too."

Reach Prep writer George Robinson at georgerobinson@theleafchronicle.com or (931) 245-0747 and on Twitter @Cville_Sports.